FTP, or File Transfer Protocol, is a standard network protocol used to transfer files between a client and a server over the internet. It allows users to upload, download, and manage files on remote servers, making it essential for website management and data sharing. FTP operates on a client-server model, where the client initiates a connection to the server. Users typically access FTP servers using software called FTP clients, which provide a user-friendly interface for navigating files and folders. Common FTP clients include FileZilla and WinSCP, which simplify the process of transferring files securely.